Senior Advisor, Operations

Alberta Innovates is seeking a Senior Advisor, Operations to support work that advances research, innovation, and technology development in Alberta.

 If you are looking for work that goes beyond a job description, Alberta Innovates offers the chance to contribute to research and innovation that has real impact.

Employment Status: Full-time – 2-year Term
Location: Edmonton or Calgary | Work Model: Hybrid

The Opportunity

As a Senior Advisor, Operations you will work closely with our Chief Operating Officer. The position will ensure enterprise-wide coordination of strategic and operational priorities, drive the execution of the operational plan, lead major cross-organizational initiatives, strengthen team structures, and foster collaboration across business units. This role provides strategic insight, operational oversight, leadership, and stakeholder engagement to support organizational performance and advance the mandate of Alberta Innovate.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be responsible for duties that will include:

• Support the COO in developing and implementing business models and operational strategies aligned with the organizational plan.  
• Build and optimize business models that leverage data, intellectual property, and technology to drive innovation, growth, and scalable revenue opportunities.  
• Ensure strong governance, risk management, and compliance frameworks across operational activities.  
• Translate strategic priorities into executable workplans and provide clear, executive ready insights on progress, risks, and emerging issues.  
• Lead enterprise level coordination by designing systems, processes, and practices that improve integration and operational efficiency across business units.  
• Facilitate cross functional alignment through workshops, problem solving sessions, and structured integration activities.  
• Lead major strategic initiatives and partner with Change and Process Improvement teams to support change enablement and communication strategies.  
• Champion organizational vision, values, and priorities, representing the COO and building strong relationships across internal and external stakeholders.  
• Develop plans with operational leaders and support frameworks that help teams tackle strategic challenges.  
• Maintain documentation of operational processes and governance structures, continuously identifying opportunities for improvement.

Qualifications and Skills

Required

• Undergraduate degree in Business Administration or a related field. 
• At least ten years of progressively responsible experience in organization transformation, enterprise integration, strategy execution or program/portfolio management.  
• Experience working in the field of innovation; specifically, designing/ implementing/ managing programs that support innovation ecosystems.  
• Demonstrated experience leading complex, cross functional change initiatives.  
• Strong facilitation, problem-solving, and analytical skills.  
• Experience working with executive leadership teams in dynamic or complex environments.

Preferred

• A Masters's degree in a related discipline.
• Experience in public sector, research, innovation or mission-driven organization. 
• Experience designing or implementing operating models or governance frameworks.

What We Offer

Alberta Innovates offers a total rewards package designed to support both professional growth and personal wellbeing. Depending on employment status, this may include:

• Competitive compensation aligned with internal classification and pay bands
• Comprehensive benefits, including health and dental coverage and pension benefits
• Vacation starting at three weeks, plus paid time-off programs that support balance
• Opportunities for learning and professional development
• A respectful, inclusive work environment that values collaboration and diverse perspectives
• Flexible work arrangements, where operationally feasible

You will work in a professional, collaborative environment where accountability, curiosity, and continuous improvement are valued, and where your work supports outcomes that matter to Albertans.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified applicants are encouraged to submit:

• A cover letter
• A resume
• Any additional supporting documents that demonstrate suitability for the role

Applications must be submitted by February 22, 2026.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo a security clearance and provide credible references.

Privacy Statement

The personal information collected in the application process is for recruitment and hiring purposes only. This collection is authorized under section 4(c) of the Protection of Privacy Act.

Employment Equity

(Alberta Innovates/InnoTech Alberta) is committed to the principle of equity in employment and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.